How to sign a PDF on your computer (and when you need a digital signature)

Drawn, typed and image signatures, saving a signature for reuse, and the difference from a DSC.

Updated 09 Oct 2026 · by Mustfa Software

For most everyday papers — a leave letter, a self-declaration, a rent agreement copy — a picture of your signature placed on the PDF is enough. For tenders, company filings and some government portals you need a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).

Three ways to make your signature

• Draw it with the mouse, touchpad or a pen tablet.
• Type your name and pick a handwriting-style font.
• Photo: sign on white paper, photograph it, and crop it — the cleanest result.

Step by step in RakshaPDF Reader

1. Open the PDF and choose Sign.
2. Create the signature (draw, type or image) and save it so you can reuse it.
3. Click where it should go, resize it to fit the line, and add the date if the form asks for it.
4. Save as a new file and check every page before sending.

Electronic signature vs Digital Signature Certificate

Stay safe

Do not leave your signature image in shared folders, and send signed copies as PDF (not editable Word files). For important papers, add the date and "for [purpose] only" next to the signature.